Budget 2027–2029: Benin outlines a path for controlled growth

Gathered in a plenary session at the Governors’ Palace in Porto-Novo, the parliamentarians examined the major options that will guide the preparation of the state budget for the fiscal year 2027. The session is particularly significant, as it is the first debate of this kind in the new political cycle initiated under the leadership of President Romuald Wadagni’s government.

For the chairman of the Finance and Trade Commission of the National Assembly, Gérard Gbénonchi, this debate represents a key moment in the budget calendar. It allows both for an assessment of the results achieved in recent years and for the evaluation of the coherence of the projected choices in the medium term, within a still unstable regional and international context.

The presented macroeconomic data reflect a notable resilience of the Beninese economy. Between 2023 and 2026, the country has managed to maintain a strong growth dynamic despite global geopolitical tensions, energy disruptions, and ongoing security challenges in West Africa.

The report submitted to the deputies indicates a continuous progression of the gross domestic product, with a growth rate rising from 6.4% in 2023 to 7.5% in 2024, before reaching 8.1% in 2025, a level unprecedented since the democratic renewal.

This performance is based on several pillars. The agricultural sector has continued to play a central role, while industry, construction, public works, as well as trade and commercial services have seen a resurgence in activity. All of this has contributed to strengthening the national productive base and improving macroeconomic balances.

Through the programming 2027–2029, the government thus expresses its ambition to combine budgetary discipline, ongoing reforms, and structural investments, with the aim of sustainably anchoring growth and expanding its social benefits.